I am in the head-planning stage of starting a new OO layout, and to be honest am confused by the wealth of options available compared with the late 1980s as I want to build something which is future-proofed, but considering a (lack of) time and budget and electrical skills want to start with something relatively ready-to-run. I have a small fleet of 70s/80s Hornby and Lima locos in various states of repair along with some newer mid-2000s units which I have never run, which I will eventually upgrade to DCC but not in the near future.
I'm not modelling a particular era or location, and the initial build will be primarily basic track with upgrades and scenery to come along later. I'm a fan of high-speed running with occasional station stops rather than a busy yard or station scene. Layout will start as an approx. 17ft x 24ft double track oval, with a couple of features such as a branch line and terminus station running off the main loop. I don't have a good model shop nearby, so initially I am very much reliant on online advice and research.
I've had a good trawl of these extensive forums, but still have a few questions where advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for any help given :-)
DC with futureproof for DCC - Best way to do this in terms of simple electrics? I'm familiar with isolating sections and the way the older Hornby points worked but don't quite understand things such as "live frog points", for example.
I note there is frequent mention of wiring up all the track with drop pins, but what is a good compromise? Also with points, intend to install with traditional dc motors and switch control (and no intention to DCC these ever) so I'm assuming this will no present no issues once I move my stock to DCC control?
Regarding track, I am confused with "Code 100" etc. Basically I would like modular track with concrete sleepers for the main runs, but choices seem to be limited with points and so on. Any recommends, and for standard running which "Code" is the best? Are Hornby and Peco components interchangeable, or any other recommended manufacturers?
I've learned a lot today about design software options and have a few layout ideas in mind, and also materials for the baseboard, so really is about understanding the practicalities of build to get up and running relatively quickly, and without storing up problems for the future!